The Barbican Centre Board met on Tuesday 21 July 2026 to discuss the CEO's report, which highlighted a busy first six months of the year with a strong focus on engaging the next generation. The Board also noted the minutes of previous sub-committee meetings and received updates on various programming and commercial activities.

CEO Report

Abigail Pogson, CEO of the Barbican Centre, presented a report detailing the organisation's activities over the first six months of the year. She emphasised a commitment to the next generation, outlining initiatives such as the expanded Young Barbican scheme, regular under-30s events, increased capacity for the annual Young Barbican Takeover, and partnerships with the University of the Arts London and organisations like the Saturday Culture Club and the 93 Club. The aim is to shape the Barbican's future direction, with a particular focus on its 50th anniversary in 2032 and the broader vision for the Square Mile in 2050.

The report also highlighted the significance of graduation ceremonies held at the Centre, noting the importance of these moments for individuals and the opportunity to engage with new audiences. Philippa Simpson and Beau Vigushin also contributed to the report, with Simpson discussing the relocation of the Barbican Conservatory's terrapins to the National Centre for Reptile Welfare, marking a milestone in the Conservatory's renewal journey. Vigushin noted the appointment of construction managers for the renewal project and the positive integration of new staff into the Barbican's ethos.

The CEO report also covered a range of programming highlights, including the Project a Black Planet: The Art and Culture of Panafrica exhibition, Delcy Morelos' origo installation, and the touring of exhibitions such as Beatriz González and Lucy Raven: Rounds. Creative collaborations featured the Sankofa Carnival project, showcases by Barbican Young Poets and Young Film Programmers, and a concert with the National Open Youth Orchestra. Barbican Immersive's exhibition In Other Worlds by Liam Young received positive reviews, and work is underway for its UK tour.

In music, Darkness Visible was praised for its ambition, and the programme linked to Project a Black Planet included tributes to Cesária Évora and performances by artists such as Meshell Ndegeocello and Tyshawn Sorey. Aldous Harding's sold-out concerts were also noted. Theatre and dance highlights included the musicals High Society and Death Note, with the autumn/winter 2026 season announced, featuring productions like Pam Tanowitz's Pastoral and the RSC's Hamlet Hail to the Thief. Cinema programming included Our Queer 60s: LGBTQ+ Cinema in the Decade before Stonewall and a screening of Jonas Poher Rasmussen's film Flee.

Commercial activities focused on improving financial performance and customer experience, with the Urban Baristas partnership in the Cinema Café and the formal launch of Sunday Lunch in Barbican Kitchen. The Barbican also hosted major events for SXSW London, receiving praise for its event team. Business Events supported several events during Climate Action Week and is planning for upcoming renovations.

Sub-Committee Minutes

The Board received and noted the public minutes and non-public summaries of the Finance and Risk Committee meeting held on 15 June 2026 and the People, Culture & Inclusion Committee meeting held on 8 June 2026. These sub-committees had previously met to discuss various operational and strategic matters.